Reusable Syringes Advice Calling on patients to get tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV – CBS Pittsburgh

BECKLEY, W.Va. (AP) – West Virginia Health officials are urging some patients at the Mountain State Vascular Clinic in Beckley to get blood tests to check for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV after possible exposure. .

A letter to patients said the clinic reported that the single-use syringe had been used on more than one patient during invasive procedures at the facility, news agencies this week reported. State health officials are investigating.

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The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources said in a statement that there were no confirmed cases of infection, but some patients visited between October 27, 2020 and May 7. 7 2021 should be checked.

It said the infection can last for years without experiencing symptoms, “so it’s important to get tested even if you don’t feel sick.”

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Mountain State Vascular Medical Officer Dr Brian Whyte told The Register-Herald he reported the matter to state health officials after discovering an employee had reused a syringe.

He said he believes only a small number of patients have been affected and that the staff member no longer works at the clinic.

The facility performs vascular procedures, wound care, and diagnostic services.

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